Is it possible to diagnose a child or adolescent with a personality disorder?
Although it is complicated, it is possible to diagnose a child or adolescent with a personality disorder. It can be complicated because a child’s personality is developing and changing, and personality disorders are diagnosed based on symptoms over a period of time. Borderline personality disorder and antisocial disorder are two personality disorders that are more commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents. About 6% to 17% of adolescents in community settings meet criteria for one or more PD diagnoses. Their peak prevalence may occur during early and middle adolescence. SOLVED- NSG5905 Week 2 Discussion Board
What is one developmental theory that relates to childhood or adolescent personality disorders?
John Bowlby’s attachment theory is a developmental theory arguing that early interaction between children and their caregiver influences the relationship with their mothers. It also helps to predict relationship development in the future. The bond between child and caregiver is crucial in social and emotional development for the child. Secure and loving home for a child when they are growing up sets the foundation for health relationships in the future.
Describe the management of care for a child or adolescent with a personality disorder including assessment, diagnosis, and multi-modal treatment of these disorders.
As with any diagnosis, the clinical interview is crucial to gain the information needed to diagnose a child or adolescent with a personality disorder. This includes interview the child and family or caregiver in order to obtain a developmental and social history. The utilization of screening tools is key to gather the information for personality disorders. According to the DSM-5, some screening tools includes the Rorschach Inkblot test, Children’s Apperception Test, Adolescent Apperceptions Cards, and Child Behavior Checklist. Treatment of children with diagnosed personality disorders should be treated in combination therapies. This includes therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), family therapy, and medication. Also, medications include antidepressants, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics. After this diagnosis, the child will require long-term treatment and therapy.
Integrate appropriate ethical and legal principles specific to the care of clients with this disorder.
When treating a child or adolescent with a personality disorder, it is important to consider the ethical and legal principles. Additionally, a provider must obtain informed consent and allow for autonomy of the person being treated. They must be included in their care and allow for the autonomy to make decisions about their care. Others include confidentiality, non-maleficence and beneficence, equality and non-discrimination, child protection laws, and mandatory reporting. APA